Ronald George Fitch

Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Ron attended Baltimore Polytechnic Institute before serving in the United States Navy. He later moved to New Jersey, where he spent most of his professional career as an electronics engineer with Honeywell. Before retiring, he returned to Baltimore and worked as a test engineer for Ciena, working with their state-of-the-art fiber optic equipment. In 2001, Ron retired to Florida, where he continued to enjoy the many interests and friendships that made his life so rich.

Ron had a lifelong passion for English automobiles, particularly MGs and Austin-Healeys. He enjoyed restoring these classic cars and earned numerous awards at car shows for his work. He spent many hours alongside fellow car enthusiasts at a workshop affectionately known as the DART shop. His love of cars extended beyond restoration to club activities and adventures on the open road. Ron was the first president of the Eastgate Dunes MG Car Club and a member of the Wing & Bonnet Car Club. He organized numerous road rallies for both clubs and also worked with the pit crew for the race team at Racer's Cafe in Parkville, Maryland. One of his proudest automotive adventures was completing the Rally to Reno in 2011 in his beloved MGB GT.

An avid cruiser, Ron sailed on more than 100 cruises throughout his life. He was particularly fond of historic ships and enjoyed sailing on many vessels that had since been decommissioned. Among his favorite memories were his eight trips aboard the Regal Empress, which he affectionately—and humorously—called the “Leaky Teaky.”

Ron also enjoyed life’s simpler pleasures. A member of the Parrot Heads of Citrus, he loved listening to Jimmy Buffett and Doo-Wop music. He was equally happy spending countless hours building elaborate platforms and layouts for his model trains, bringing another of his many interests to life through patience, creativity, and attention to detail.

Above all, Ron cherished the experiences, friendships, and family connections that enriched his life. Whether restoring a classic automobile, organizing a rally, setting sail on another cruise, working on his model trains, watching Formula 1 or enjoying a beer with his friends, he approached his interests with enthusiasm and dedication. His stories, humor, and passion for his many hobbies will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Ron is survived by his son, Michael Fitch, and his wife, Kathryn; his daughter, Janis Fitch, and her husband, Steven Mayhew; and his beloved grandsons, Jordan and Ryan Fitch.

Ron leaves behind a lifetime of wonderful memories, lasting friendships, and a legacy of adventure, craftsmanship, and enthusiasm for the things he loved. He will be deeply missed by his family and all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Fair winds and following seas, Ron. May your next journey be a wonderful one.